Branched Stent Side Branch Deployment via Shape Memory
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stent grafts require complex release devices and lack sufficient support at the branch-off region of side branches from the main branch, making them difficult to deploy and stabilize.
Innovation Solution
A branched stent system made of strand-shaped materials, including shape-memory wires or threads, where the side branch can transition from a fully enclosed to an externally deployed state, providing fluidic connection and enhanced support through shape-memory materials and braiding techniques, allowing for simpler deployment and increased stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a flexible side branch is used in existing stent grafts, then the stent can be easily positioned in the vessel lumen, but the side branch provides no or only slight support effect in the region of the opening
Solution Approach 1:
The side branch is constructed from shape-memory material that combines flexibility for positioning with structural support capability. The material transitions from a flexible compressed state during insertion to a rigid expanded state at the deployment site, providing both ease of positioning and adequate support effect simultaneously.
2Manufacturing precision
If a complex release device is used for stent graft release, then the stent can be precisely deployed, but the release process becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The stent system utilizes the elastic recovery properties of shape-memory material to achieve self-deployment. The stent is pre-compressed for insertion and then automatically expands to its original shape upon release from the delivery catheter, eliminating the need for complex external release mechanisms while maintaining precise deployment control.
3Ease of operation
If the side branch lies completely inside the main lumen during positioning, then the positioning is simplified, but the side branch cannot provide support at the branch-off region
Solution Approach 1:
The side branch transitions dynamically from a compressed state inside the main lumen during positioning to an expanded state at the branch-off region during deployment. This dynamic transformation allows the side branch to remain inconspicuous during insertion while providing necessary structural support and stability when deployed.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables easier positioning and release of the stent with improved support at the branch-off region, reducing the complexity of the release mechanism and enhancing the structural integrity and fluidic connectivity within the stent system.
Implementation Method 1
the side branch comprises a shape-memory material. The shape-memory effect allows for a simpler release of the branched stent
Data Source
AI summary
A branched stent includes a main branch having a tubular main lumen and a side branch that branches off from the main branch. The main branch and the side branch are made from a strand-shaped starting material. The side branch is configurable between a first state in which the side branch lies within the main lumen and a second state in which the side lies outside the main lumen. In the second state, the side branch defines a tubular side branch fluidically connected to the main lumen. The side branch is formed at least in part of a shape-memory material.